Best Things To Do In Gruene TX

Gruene (pronounced green) is one of the most adorable towns in Texas. It’s a must see destination in the Texas Hill Country! Gruene just oozes Texas charm and happens to be listed in the National Register for Historic Places. If you find yourself here for a few hours or a weekend, here are the best things to do in Gruene TX.

Where is it?

Gruene is located in the city of New Braunfels, between Austin and San Antonio. It’s about an hour drive from either city depending on traffic.

The historic part of Gruene is only a couple blocks wide, so it’s easy to walk the entire area. There’s free parking throughout the area.

Tip: Come early for close parking!

Click here for a map of the area.

Brief History:

Gruene was settled by German immigrants in the mid 1800’s. The city is named after Ernst Gruene one of the first settlers. His son, Henry D. Gruene built a home and planted cotton on his land. The cotton became the number one cash crop and caused the town to flourish.

The General store opened in 1878. Followed by the Cotton Gin, Dance Hall and Saloon. The Mercantile opened in 1904 and was the last building to open before Henry D. Gruene’s death.

With his death marked the downfall of Gruene’s development. With the Cotton Gin burning down in 1922, the boll weevil moving in and killing all the cotton plus the Great Depression it was too much for the town to survive.

After that, it became a ghost town for over 20 years. It was rediscovered by Chip Kaufman and he helped save the district from being torn down by developers.

Gruene was placed on The National Register of Historic Places in 1975.

Best Things To Do In Gruene:

Two Step at Gruene Hall

Gruene Hall is Texas oldest continuously running dance hall. This building survived during the ghost town era.

Pictures line the walls of music artists who performed or even got their start there. George Strait, Garth Brooks, The Dixie Chicks, Willie Nelson, Miranda Lambert and Lyle Lovett to name a few.

Live music happens daily! Dance yourself into a little bit of Texas history.

Check out their calendar for upcoming shows. Tickets are required for some shows!

Tip: If you’re not able to score a ticket, you can still listen to the music from outside the building in the garden area.

Gruene General Store

The most touristy place in Gruene, but it’s still a must do for the nostalgic vibe. The building dates back to 1878!

They sell all kinds of Texas souvenirs! A lot of them locally made like salsa, sauces, country style preserves, honey butter and fudge. Or even spicy pickled quail eggs! Plus regular stuff like cowboy hats, magnets and keychains.

You can get a hand dipped scoop of ice cream from the old fashioned soda fountain. Or a Coke Float! Perfect for Texas summers!!

Gristmill River Restaurant

This restaurant is housed in the shell of the old Cotton Gin that was built in 1878. It’s become well known for their multi tiered patios overlooking the Guadalupe River and it’s delicious food!

I thought this place might be a hyped up tourist trap, but I’m so glad I was wrong! The food is amazing! I recommend the Tortilla Soup, seriously the best I’ve had! The chicken fried steak and onion rings are delicious and highly recommended.

FYI, there is no AC in this building, so it gets hot in the summer! However, the views of the river make up for it.

Tip: This is the most popular restaurant in Gruene! I recommend getting here early for a weekday lunch, so you can miss the crowds.

Gruene Coffee Haus

For all the coffee lovers, this adorable coffee shop will supply all your caffeine needs. Try the Texas Pecan Coffee! Ground Texas Pecans with the coffee beans! In other words, deliciousness!!

Tube the Guadalupe River

Floating down the river in the cold water is the perfect Texas summer activity! You can tube, raft, kayak or stand up paddle board. Pack a cooler and make an afternoon out of it!

If you own your own tubes, you can essentially do this for free. However if you need to rent, check out Rockin R. They rent tubes, kayaks and paddle boards. Plus they offer shuttle rides from the river to your car if you don’t want to hassle with transportation, Check out their website here Rockin R.

Tip: Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen!!! Plus pack extra drinks and snacks in case it takes longer than expected. Also their is a ban on disposable drinking containers, so pack accordingly. AKA no cans.

*Covid: As of right now the rivers are closed due to Covid.

Check out the Water Tower

The Water Tower no longer supplies the district’s water. It’s just a decorative symbol of the town.

Unfortunately, it has a tragic history with the town manager. He was distraught over the loss of all the Gruene money and hung himself from the water tower.

Now on to happier topics…

The Grapevine

A local hot spot for wine tasting and live music. They have a huge selection of Texas wine to choose from and offer free tastings. You do need to purchase one glass after the tastings. Sample a few different wines inside. Grab a glass and head out on the patio to enjoy it outdoors in the beautiful garden.

It’s located right off Main Street next to the General Store. You can’t miss it!

Gruene Antique Company

This antique store has 6500 square feet for visitors to explore. It’s a maze of mini rooms and display cases filled with antiques, collectibles and gifts.

Even if antiquing isn’t your thing, it’s a fun historic building to walk around. Built in 1903 by Henry D. Gruene as a Mercantile for farmers.

Gruene Market Days

Old Gruene Market Days happens on the first full third weekend of every month except January. This is a great time to check out the local artisans and their handcrafted goods! There’s everything from canned goods and spices to clothing and artwork.

It’s set up along Main Street.

Gruene Mansion Inn

One of the most charming Bed and Breakfasts I’ve seen! The house was built by Henry D. Gruene in 1872. Kinda cool to be sleeping in the original residence of one of the towns founders!

The Inn offers more than 30 rooms to choose from! Above all, it’s in a great location and with in walking distance to everything.

Try A Fickle Pickle

If you love pickles, you’ve got to try a Fickle Pickle! Sweet with a hint of spice. They also have a spicier version too. They offer free samples and you’ll definitely want to purchase more!

This family run business has been open since 1987. Located next door to the Gruene Coffee Haus.

More Shopping

In addition to the shops I already mentioned, there are several cute gift shops, boutiques and specialty stores located in the historic district. A great way to spend a couple hours!